Don’t forget to change your clocks! The National safety council also ask everyone to take this time to check a few things around your house:

1. Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Did you know that each detector has an expiration date? If you didn’t purchase your home in the last few years it’s possible that you don’t have the proper amount or type of detectors in your home. Call your local fire department’s fire prevention bureau or visit their website for guidelines to help keep you and your family safe. At the very least, change your batteries and test each system!

2. The National Safety Council recommends every family have an emergency plan in place in the event of a natural disaster or other catastrophic event. Spring is a great time to review that plan with family members. Have a home and car emergency kit.

3. Dispose of unused, expired or unwanted medicines and prescriptions. You can take unwanted or expired medicines to a prescription drop box or take-back event near you. NSC offers free Stericycle Seal & Send envelopes, so you can send your unwanted medication to be safely destroyed.

4. Does your home have a fire extinguisher? Does everyone in your home know where the extinguishers are kept? Most extinguishers last between five and 15 years, according to manufacturers. Check the tag on your extinguisher for dates and manufacturer’s instructions. A fire extinguisher with a gauge should be checked every month to make sure it is properly charged.

It’s freezing in Boston and we have a few inches of snow on the ground, but spring is right around the corner!